Homelessness: Family Promise works to assist families in need

Family Promise of Shawnee offers hope to those who suffer from homelessness. The situation can strike entire families, as “Rick” knows.

Carmen Bourlon

Family Promise of Shawnee offers hope to those who suffer from homelessness. The situation can strike entire families, as “Rick” knows.

Rick is currently in the program for the second time with his two daughters, “Julie,” 12, and “Monica,” 13. He said he is currently on the list for housing, and is hoping to secure a full time job soon.

Family Promise was first started in New Jersey in 1986. Family Promise of Shawnee was founded in 2005, and was the first Family Promise in the state, Case Manager Brandy Lester said.

Family Promise assists homeless families with at least one child, including single parents with at least one child. The organization also assists homeless women who are pregnant.

The organization partners with area churches to provide overnight shelters. Families leave their things at the Family Promise day center where they are allowed to stay during the day, Lester said.

Transportation is also provided so residents can still get to work and school, along with other activities, she said.

When families are preparing to leave the program, local churches and other charitable organizations work with Family Promise to provide furnishings and the other items required for their new homes, Lester said.

Rick, who is working on his G.E.D., receives assistance in the form of being paid to attend school and aid from Temporary Assistance for Need Families, and medical care for himself and his daughters.

However he will be faced with more challenges if he secures a full time job, as he will lose most of his state assistance and will no longer be able to attend school. However, he said he is willing to let those go in order to find work.